Introducing the Knowledge Base CEA Newsletter

Hi Folks,
Welcome to the first edition of The Knowledge Base CEA newsletter. Every other week, I’ll share honest insights, podcast highlights, and real opportunities across CEA, recruitment, asset sales, and more.

My goal is to keep it real, useful, and worth your time.

Best,
Kyle Barnett
Founder, Knowledge Base CEA

*”What does CEA even stand for?!” Not interested in this information? No problem, just hit unsubscribe below.

INDUSTRY CALL TO ACTION

Knowledge Base CEA Launches CEALandscape.com – A Visual Directory for the collective CEA Industry

CEALandscape.com is a new interactive directory designed to map out the entire Controlled Environment Agriculture ecosystem. From growers and technology providers to consultants, suppliers, & associations this living landscape showcases the full range of companies shaping the space. Whether you're just getting started or have been in the industry for years, you're invited to list your company and be part of this open, community-built resource.

CropTalk Podcast

The CropTalk Podcast

A Masterclass in Operational Excellence with Pieter Slaman of Little Leaf Farms

Episode 261: Leading with Feeling, Faith, and Precision with Pieter Slaman

In this special episode, guest host Adam Greenberg of IUNU visits Little Leaf Farms' Massachusetts facility for a raw and insightful conversation with Head Grower Pieter Slaman. Pieter shares the story behind Little Leaf’s rise, from a bold vision to becoming North America’s largest lettuce greenhouse operation.

Don’t have time to listen? Read the summary here: Little Leaf Farms’ Head Grower Shares Steps to Success

Gabe Ferraro of Sunterra Greenhouse on What It Really Takes to Grow Tomatoes at Scale

CropTalk Kicks Off the Tomato Master Grower Series with Gabriel Ferraro (Part 1 of 4)

CropTalk launches a new four-part series focused on large-scale tomato production, starting with Gabriel Ferraro, Head Grower at Sunterra Greenhouses in Alberta, Canada.

In this episode, Gabe shares with Kyle real-world insights from decades in the field, covering labor shortages, pricing pressures, the limits of automation, and what it actually takes to lead a high-performing greenhouse team. It’s a raw, practical conversation grounded in experience and operational reality.

Every grower, supplier, and industry leader should hear what Gabe has to say.

Check out the most recent CropTalk Series:

*Also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most streaming platforms. Just search “CropTalk”

Feature Article & Big News

Indoor Ag Conversations: Federal Policy Roundtable Summary

A recent Indoor Ag-Conversations roundtable brought together CEA leaders to address key federal policy issues impacting the industry. As Controlled Environment Agriculture continues to scale, the need for meaningful public policy, advocacy, and funding has never been greater.

Moderated by Tom Stenzel, Executive Director of the CEA Alliance, the discussion featured Skip Hulett (NatureSweet), Colin O’Neil (O’Neil Strategies), and Jed Portman (80 Acres Farms). Together, they explored how industry leaders can engage policymakers, align with national priorities, and unlock opportunities through strategic advocacy. Topics included critical labor and trade challenges, as well as underutilized federal financing tools. The full article breaks down where we stand, what’s missing, and how the industry can move forward together.

Developing Story

RecruitCEA: A Free Platform to Connect Talent and Opportunity in CEA

Originally launched in 2015 as PonicJobs.com, RecruitCEA.com was built to serve as a dedicated career platform for the Controlled Environment Agriculture industry. Now rebranded and expanded, it remains a completely free resource for both employers and job seekers. Whether you're hiring for your greenhouse or exploring your next opportunity in indoor farming, RecruitCEA.com connects top talent with real-world opportunities across the industry. Post your open roles, upload your resume, and help us continue supporting the growth of CEA, one job at a time.

For additional details email [email protected] with the subject line: CONTAINER FARM SALE

AmplifiedAg Inc. is pleased to offer a unique opportunity to acquire a fully equipped hydroponic grow container facility, purpose-built for high-efficiency leafy green production. This advanced facility offers two flexible options:

Relocation: All components can be disassembled and relocated to a site of your choosingideal for integrating into existing operations or establishing a new agricultural facility. Buyer to coordinate and pay for relocation logistics

Operate at Current Location (US-GA)": Gain immediate access to a fully operational hydroponic system without relocation. Perfect for those looking to start or expand production quickly. Contingent upon negotiating a lease with building owner

Turnkey Facility available for $790,000

Additional Liquidation & Asset Sales

“Reusing things means saving the energy and resources needed to make new ones and that’s one of the most effective paths to sustainability.”
- Dr. Walter R. Stahel

If you are looking for additional liquidation sales for horticulture equipment and supplies, check out Second Bloom Auctions. Use code KBCEA at checkout for an additional discount.

“In God we trust. All others must bring data.”